Southwest Burger Recipe

Mix

In a large bowl combine the ground beef and ground pork (if using). Add the diced onion, minced garlic, minced chipotle in adobo, ground cumin, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Gently fold ingredients together with your hands or a spatula until just combined — avoid overmixing to keep patties tender.

Form Patties

Divide the mixture into two equal portions. Gently form into patties about 4-5 inches in diameter and roughly 3/4 inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to reduce doming while cooking.

Cook

Heat a cast-iron skillet or large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and swirl to coat. When the pan is hot and oil shimmering, add the patties (do not overcrowd). Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook 2-3 more minutes for medium (adjust 1-2 minutes for desired doneness). During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on each patty and cover the pan briefly to melt.

Rest

Transfer cooked patties to a plate and let rest for 3 minutes while you assemble the burgers. Resting helps the juices redistribute.

While patties cook, make the avocado spread. In a small bowl, scoop the avocado flesh and mash with a fork until mostly smooth but slightly chunky. Add lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced jalapeño, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir to combine. If the spread is too thick for easy spreading, add up to 1 teaspoon water and mix to reach desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning or lime as needed.

Toast Buns

Split buns and toast cut sides until golden in a skillet or toaster (about 1-2 minutes).

Assemble

Spread a generous layer (about 1-2 tablespoons) of the Southwest avocado spread on the bottom bun. Place a lettuce leaf, then a cheese-topped patty on top. Add a slice of tomato, a tablespoon or two of pickled red onions, and optional pickled jalapeños and crumbled cotija. Top with the other lettuce leaf and the top bun spread if desired. Repeat for the second burger.

Serve

Serve immediately while hot, alongside fries, chips, or a simple slaw. Provide extra lime wedges and hot sauce if desired.